McLouth gets new mayor, seeks city clerk

The council president once again has been appointed as mayor in McLouth.

Mike Graveman stepped into the mayoral role at the June 19 meeting when Gary Royer stepped down. Royer, who was serving his first term, replaced Jim Schonherr, who had to resign because he moved outside the city limits.

Royer cited his job in part as reason for stepping down.

"It's just job-related," Royer said. "Just busy at work. And just stuff going on. I just didn't have the time to spend doing it."

Graveman said Royer told him in advance of the meeting of his plans, but the announcement was not made public until that meeting, Graveman said.

"So, yes, it was a surprise for everybody," Graveman said.

Graveman has served on the council about nine months. He was not elected, but was appointed by Royer to fill a vacancy on the council caused by another resignation.

Attempts to reach anyone at McLouth City Hall were unsuccessful Monday. Currently, the city is without a city clerk or an assistant city clerk.

Former assistant city clerk Debbie Hansen resigned about two months ago to accept a different job, while longtime City Clerk Ruth Edmonds retired Friday after 17 years on city staff.

Council member Sharon Lobb Johnson said Hansen had found a more lucrative job.

"You can't ever blame a person for a better position," she said.

Graveman said the city currently is advertising for a new city clerk, but the council is still discussing whether to hire an assistant city clerk as well.

"I don't think we really know," Graveman said. "We have not made plans. Currently we are advertising for the clerk."

The council also will look to appoint a council member to fill Graveman's council seat.

As mayor, Graveman will recommend his replacement. The council then will decide whether to appoint his recommendation.

On Monday, Graveman said he had an idea of a possible replacement.

"I do have somebody in mind but I'd rather not say," Graveman said.

The council's next meeting is at 7 p.m. today at McLouth City Hall, 110 N. Union.